In Real Madrid's impressive 3-0 victory against Manchester City in the Champions League, Trent Alexander-Arnold's performance received scrutiny from Spanish media, despite the team’s success. The match highlighted Alexander-Arnold's inclusion in the starting lineup by manager Alvaro Arbeloa, where he witnessed Fede Valverde's stellar first-half hat-trick. While the victory was significant, it was Alexander-Arnold's challenges on the defensive end, particularly against City winger Jeremy Doku, that drew critical attention.

The concerns were primarily centered around Alexander-Arnold's defensive capabilities, as his attempts to contain Doku were noted as an area needing improvement. Although Real Madrid managed to secure a commanding lead, the right-back's inability to effectively manage the one-on-one situations brought forth some skepticism regarding his form and decision-making in high-pressure situations. Spanish analysts emphasized the need for Alexander-Arnold to enhance his defensive game to meet the demands of such competitive fixtures.

Despite the critique, Alexander-Arnold's performance was not entirely overshadowed by his struggles. His ability to contribute offensively and engage in build-up play was highlighted positively, indicating that he has room to grow and adapt his game further. Moving forward, balancing defensive responsibilities with attacking contributions will be crucial for Alexander-Arnold as he aims to solidify his place in the squad and impress both his coach and critics alike.